1.3.4

Types of Networks

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Geographical Classification of Networks

Networks can be described by the geographical area that they cover.

Illustrative background for Local area network (LAN)Illustrative background for Local area network (LAN) ?? "content

Local area network (LAN)

  • A LAN is a collection of computers connected over a small geographical area.
  • These are typically found in homes, schools, universities, and small companies.
  • The LAN is set up and maintained by the organisation that uses it.
Illustrative background for Wide area network (WAN)Illustrative background for Wide area network (WAN) ?? "content

Wide area network (WAN)

  • A WAN is a collection of computers connected over a large geographical area.
  • WANs are used by multinational organisations that have international offices they need to connect to.
  • A WAN is usually rented from a large telecommunications company because WANs are expensive to set up.
  • One example of a WAN that you use is the Internet. The Internet is the largest WAN in the world.

Jump to other topics

1Computer Systems

1.1Systems Architecture

1.2Memory & Storage

1.3Computer Networks, Connections & Protocols

1.4Network Security

1.5Systems Software

1.6Ethical, Legal, Cultural & Environmental Concern

2Computational Thinking, Algorithms and Programming

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